What: The Christmas Tree Lighting at Jack Poole plaza has become an annual holiday tradition for Vancouver families. Back for its ninth year, the Christmas tree lighting will take place on December 4, where four beautiful trees will be lit up with festive lights (one that’s over 50 feet tall).

What: Loved by filmmakers and film lovers alike, the Whistler Film Festival is a place where artists are celebrated, audiences are inspired and new ideas enter the cultural dialogue. The festival features 89 innovative and original films from around the world alongside opportunities to connect with the people who created them.

What: High up in the alpine range lies the Sea to Sky Gondola near Squamish, offering unparalleled views of snow-capped mountains. The Christmas festivities include snowshoeing, tubing, a forest walk, warm and cozy storytime and a brunch with Santa himself. There will also be a Christmas Market at the mountain base and local choirs singing holiday carols, including a special holiday concert.

What: The Vancouver Chamber Choir is putting on three fabulous Christmas concerts this season, beginning on December 4 with Christmas in the Orpheum, a collection of renaissance, baroque & carols. Next is A Dylan Thomas Christmas, followed by the ever-popular A Charlie Brown Christmas.

What: Port Moody’s most festive 5 km run returns December 5, with the Ugly Christmas Sweater Dash. Don your most heinous holiday attire and take a jaunt around Port Moody, raising money for the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.

What: Shop for beautiful and unique handmade goods at the Kensington Holiday Craft Fair. With a collection of over 50 vendors attendees are guaranteed to find a range of imaginative gifts and stocking stuffers.

What: Every year, hundreds of floats, marching bands, and performers take to the streets in celebration of the holiday season. Organizations, businesses, and communities across Vancouver are represented, with a visit from the big man himself, Saint Nicholas. It will feature 3,500 participants and an estimated 300,000 spectators in downtown Vancouver.

Where: East down Georgia Street, starting at Broughton Street, then south on Howe Street to Davie Street

What: The Vancouver Bach Choir knows a thing or two about how to nail a Christmas carol. More than 400 singers will fill the stage to sing all the beloved Christmas classics during this afternoon concert, featuring the Children’s Chorus and Youth Choir.

What: Stroll with friends and family through interactive themed areas and enjoy the Dancing Lights show on Livingstone Lake, the gnome performance and the Vancouver Public Library’s Tales for a Winter’s Night. Have photos taken with Santa, savour holiday treats, and delight in much more.

What: The rink at Robson Square is operated seasonally by the provincial government when the temperatures begin to dip, running from morning into the late evening hours. Skaters can skate for free if they bring their own skates while those without skates can rent a pair on-site. There is also a concession stand serving snacks and warm drinks.

What: The sweetest lane in the city celebrates its 25th annual return to the lobby of Hyatt Regency Vancouver from December 4 through December 27. Executive Chef Jeff Szombaty and the engineering team are hard at work constructing this year’s stunning gingerbread house, built to serve as the centrepiece for more than 30 gingerbread creations designed by secondary schools, professionals and amateur culinary artists.

What: The Galactic Empire is rewarding $500 creds to the bravest stormtroopers to seek out the last standing Jedis. Drink giveaways all night long with the best costume, Leia Buns and Darth Vader Impressions! Themed food will be available for purchase by CAVO Bar & Kitchen. Ready are you? Gather your rebels and send their full names and your team name to [email protected]

What: Celebrate the first night of Chanukah, with the lighting of the tallest Menorah in Canada, the Silber Family Agam Menorah, at the Vancouver Art Gallery, corner Georgia and Hornby St. There will be live entertainment, refreshments and greetings from politicians and dignitaries.